Hewson: We have a problem

The problem is a shrinking number of qualified aviation workers. That was one of the main issues addressed by Marillyn Hewson, executive vice president of global sustainment for Lockheed Martin.

Hewson, a San Antonio favorite, got things started this morning talking about the importance of the aerospace industry to the San Antonio economy. She should know. She was the president of Kelly Aviation Center, which did aircraft engine maintenance, repair and overhaul operations.

Hewson beat a drum that needs to be pounded even more vigorously. There is a crushing need for aviation engineers and professionals. The work force in aviation is getting older and retiring faster than it can be replenished. She said by 2010 the aerospace industry will be short anywhere from 41,000 to 87,000 engineers.